Bump, bump goes the SUV, tossing its passengers up and down, as we meander through dusky and unlevelled motorways. Half-lit concrete structures, silhouetted by beams of dawn sunlight, give way to vast expanses of partially barren hills. Holding on tight, I concentrate on catching a glimpse of the serene countryside.

"This is all Imphal East district," informs Thangkhopao Gangte, a World Vision field staff. 

Playing hide and seek amid a cover of dismal clouds...